Project: Acetaminophen Screening
Industry: Pharmaceuticals
Problem: The acetaminophen product contained an excessive amount of fines below 180µm, making it impossible to press into a tablet or pill. The requirement was no more than 5% fines under this size. However, achieving this target was particularly challenging due to the high aspect ratio and needle-like shape of the crystals.
Solution: To address the issue, an Allgaier Tumbler Screening machine with an air cleaning system was utilized on the bottom of the screen, combined with a slight vacuum and ball cleaning on the top, which helped keep the screens clear and functioning and allowed the needle-shaped crystals to poke through the screen holes and be vacuumed.
Outcome: The final product achieved the desired particle distribution, with only 2-3% fines remaining, making it possible to press the material into tablets. The result was an improvement in product quality, leading to successful tablet production.
Takeaway: By combining radial and tangent movement, the screening efficiency was significantly enhanced. The use of an air knife and a slight vacuum under the screen proved effective for managing complex particles with high aspect ratios. This method is especially valuable for dedusting applications and products with similar characteristics.
Equipment Used:
